workplace harassment

Responding to TOI readers’ queries, Charu Sinha, DG, Women Safety says police have identified hotspots for eve teasing and stepped up surveillance to make Hyderabad safer for women. She also urges parents to be cautious about children’s online safety and report all forms of harassment

The complaints span a range of issues such as forced resignations, denial of maternity leave and unrealistic targets

The National Commission for Women has ordered Tata Consultancy Services to establish separate Internal Committees in all 127 units with over 10 employees within four weeks. This directive follows serious concerns raised about workplace safety and Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (PoSH) Act implementation at the firm's Nashik centre, highlighting systemic gaps and a toxic environment.

GR Empowers Wide Network Of Officials To Conduct Drive

Shresta Iyer, sister of cricketer Shreyas Iyer, responded to online trolling after Punjab Kings missed the IPL 2026 playoffs. An old celebratory “banter” reel resurfaced, leading to abuse targeting her, her workplace, colleagues, and family. Shresta said the video was harmless fun, not hate, and urged trolls to stop harassing people connected to her personally and professionally.

In a dramatic legal twist, JPMorgan's top executive Lorna Hajdini finds herself facing serious allegations from ex-junior banker Chirayu Rana, who has accused her of sexual coercion and racial harassment. In response, Hajdini has initiated a defamation counterclaim, asserting that Rana's accusations are nothing but a ploy for personal profit.

An office employee has accused AMMA treasurer Unni Sivapal of mental harassment, leading to her dismissal. AMMA has withdrawn the termination and placed Sivapal on leave pending an investigation. The employee also alleged inaction from general secretary Kukku Parameswaran, who reportedly advised her to cooperate or resign. Separately, AMMA accepted joint secretary Ansiba Hassan's resignation.

AMMA is embroiled in controversy as Tini Tom criticizes the power structure, deeming the president a "rubber stamp." This follows a harassment complaint, staff dismissals, and a joint secretary's resignation. The association faces scrutiny over its leadership's administrative decisions and alleged lack of transparency, impacting its reputation and welfare efforts.

Nashik police filed a 1,500-page chargesheet against four accused in a TCS sexual harassment and religious sentiments case. Charges include rape, sexual harassment, conspiracy, and acts intended to outrage religious feelings under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. The investigation also invoked the SC/ST Act. Evidence includes witness statements, medical reports, and seized documents.

A National Commission for Women panel found pervasive sexual harassment, abuse of authority, and zero Posh Act compliance at TCS Nashik. The report highlighted a toxic environment, insensitivity from the Internal Committee, and a shared IC for Pune and Nashik offices, a legal contravention. Recommendations include strict action and safeguarding employees.

A viral JPMorgan harassment lawsuit involving Chirayu Rana, a banker of Nepalese origin, has taken a sharper turn after senior executive Lorna Hajdini countersued him for defamation, calling his “sex slave” allegations false and malicious, and claiming they destroyed her reputation and life

Online abuse in India, from trolling to threats, can now lead to police action under the new Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and IT Act. While criticism is protected, criminal intimidation, stalking, and sharing private content are serious offences. Victims should preserve evidence and report to authorities, as anonymous accounts are often traceable.

Workplaces across India face challenges in implementing the Prevention of Sexual Harassment Act. Many organisations lack proper training and functional Internal Committees. Employees often fear retaliation and remain silent about harassment. Delays in complaint resolution and lack of transparency further hinder justice. This situation creates unsafe work environments for women, requiring immediate attention and effective implementation of POSH.

Lucknow University has suspended a zoology assistant professor. He faces charges of harassing female students and attempting to leak examination question papers. The university's disciplinary committee submitted an interim report. The executive council approved the suspension and issued a charge sheet. The accused must respond within 15 days. Failure to do so may result in termination.

A 32-year-old saloon manager was found dead in her Lucknow apartment after allegedly posting a social media video detailing mental harassment by her employer and colleagues. Police were alerted by a friend after the woman informed them of her intentions before taking the extreme step. An investigation is underway, with five individuals named in the video being examined.

Will Smith has successfully had a sexual harassment lawsuit filed by violinist Brian King Joseph dismissed. Joseph, a former America's Got Talent contestant, alleged he was fired after reporting a break-in involving sexually suggestive materials. A judge ruled the evidence did not constitute workplace sexual misconduct or prove Smith's involvement, dismissing all claims.

A viral post by streamer Zack Hoyt, suggesting women's jobs are for "fake parity" and they should return to being mothers or "pr***utes," has ignited widespread criticism. Daya Ventures CEO Malin Frithiofsson shared the remarks, highlighting the reach of such misogynistic content and her own experiences with online abuse, sparking a broader debate on gender bias and online behavior.

Odisha recorded the highest number of sexual harassment cases in public places/pathways with 549 incidents, according to the NCRB's 'Crime in India-2024' report. This new category highlights a significant concern, with police acknowledging the issue and vowing to enhance safety measures. The report also noted a lack of awareness or trust in safety apps among women in Bhubaneswar.

Dowry deaths persist in India despite being outlawed, with women facing relentless demands for cash and property, often leading to violence and suicide. This practice, deeply rooted in power and control, continues across all social strata, highlighting a societal failure beyond legal reform.